One of the primary challenges facing Southern Africa and Africa is the rapid growth in consumption of products and resources, which is putting pressure on the environment and natural resources. The region’s economic growth is largely driven by the extraction and processing of natural resources, which contributes to environmental degradation and waste generation.
The circular economy offers a solution to these challenges by promoting the reuse and recycling of materials, and waste reduction. It also increases resource efficiency. Additionally, the circular economy can help reduce poverty and inequality by providing access to education, training, and job opportunities for marginalised communities. The sector also offers opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in areas such as waste management, recycling, and sustainable manufacturing.
Our latest research delves deep into the transformative potential of the circular economy approach through applied strategic foresight. The findings emerged from a comprehensive participatory process involving a broad range of stakeholders such as the African Circular Economy Network (ACEN) and the African Development Bank’s Africa Circular Economy Facility (ACEF). This process encompassed desktop research, expert interviews, and a virtual futures lab, all aimed at gathering a range of divergent inputs on the topic. The goal is to broaden the understanding of what circularity entails in the SADC context, and contribute to the sustainability and economic development discourse in the region.
We invite you to this pivotal discussion to advance the circular economy as it has significant potential to create jobs and stimulate economic wellbeing in Southern Africa and Africa.
Download the report:
Speakers
- Susanne Yvonne Karcher, Co-founder and Executive Director, Africa Circular Economy Network
- Francois Pretorius, Senior Researcher, South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)
- Paul Currie, Director, Urban Systems, ICLEI (International Convention for Local Environmental Initiative)
Moderator
- Letitia Jentel, Senior Programme Manager and Researcher, South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)
We look forward to your attendance and participation.